Environmental Assessment for the Replacement of a Vehicle Wash Rack Travis Air Force Base, California

Transcription

1 Environmental Assessment for the Replacement of a Vehicle Wash Rack Travis Air Force Base, California Contract No. F D-8595 Task Order No Submitted to Air Force Center for Environmental Excellence Travis Air Force Base, California April Airpark Drive Redding, CA 96001

2 Report Documentation Page Form Approved OMB No Public reporting burden for the collection of information is estimated to average 1 hour per response, including the time for reviewing instructions, searching existing data sources, gathering and maintaining the data needed, and completing and reviewing the collection of information. Send comments regarding this burden estimate or any other aspect of this collection of information, including suggestions for reducing this burden, to Washington Headquarters Services, Directorate for Information Operations and Reports, 1215 Jefferson Davis Highway, Suite 1204, Arlington VA Respondents should be aware that notwithstanding any other provision of law, no person shall be subject to a penalty for failing to comply with a collection of information if it does not display a currently valid OMB control number. 1. REPORT DATE APR REPORT TYPE 3. DATES COVERED to TITLE AND SUBTITLE Environmental Assessment for the Replacement of a Vehicle Wash Rack Travis Air Force Base, California 5a. CONTRACT NUMBER 5b. GRANT NUMBER 5c. PROGRAM ELEMENT NUMBER 6. AUTHOR(S) 5d. PROJECT NUMBER 5e. TASK NUMBER 5f. WORK UNIT NUMBER 7. PERFORMING ORGANIZATION NAME(S) AND ADDRESS(ES) CH2M Hill,2525 Airpark Drive,Redding,CA, PERFORMING ORGANIZATION REPORT NUMBER 9. SPONSORING/MONITORING AGENCY NAME(S) AND ADDRESS(ES) 10. SPONSOR/MONITOR S ACRONYM(S) 12. DISTRIBUTION/AVAILABILITY STATEMENT Approved for public release; distribution unlimited 13. SUPPLEMENTARY NOTES 14. ABSTRACT 11. SPONSOR/MONITOR S REPORT NUMBER(S) 15. SUBJECT TERMS 16. SECURITY CLASSIFICATION OF: 17. LIMITATION OF ABSTRACT a. REPORT unclassified b. ABSTRACT unclassified c. THIS PAGE unclassified Same as Report (SAR) 18. NUMBER OF PAGES a. NAME OF RESPONSIBLE PERSON Standard Form 298 (Rev. 8-98) Prescribed by ANSI Std Z39-18

3 FINDING OF NO SIGNIFICANT IMP ACT (FONSI) ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT FOR THE REPLACEMENT OF A VEHICLE WASH RACK Introduction TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, CALIFORNIA This Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) was prepared in accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) of 1969; Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) regulations for implementing the procedural provisions of NEPA, 40 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Parts ; and The Environmental Impact Analysis Process, 32 CFR 989. The decision in this FONSI is based on information contained in the Environmental Assessment (EA) for the Replacement of a Vehicle Wash Rack, Travis Air Force Base (AFB or Base). The purposes of the EA are to determine the extent of environmental impacts that might result from proposed improvements at Travis AFB and evaluate whether these impacts, if any, would be significant. The purpose of the Purposed Action is to replace the existing inadequate, manual vehicle wash rack (and associated oil/water separator [0/WS]) in the Logistics Readiness Squadron (LRS) yard with an automated drive-through vehicle washing facility (drive-through) that is operationally superior and environmentally compliant. The Proposed Action would meet the Base's need to provide an environmentally compliant area to wash and maintain the exteriors of approximately 1,000 Base fleet and LRS vehicles. LRS and Base personnel currently wash the vehicles manually at the existing wash rack This practice is inefficient. The existing wash rack is used during limited hours because it is not lighted, and it is too small to permit washing of large Base fleet and LRS vehicles. Furthermore, the current 0 /WS associated with the wash rack has been found to be inadequate. Description of Proposed Action and Alternatives The No Action Alternative and the Proposed Action are analyzed in the EA. The No Action Alternative was carried forward for analysis in accordance with NEPA 40 CFR (d). To be considered a reasonable alternative, the chosen alternative should meet state and U.S. Air Force (Air Force) environmental requirements for the use of cleaning products and washing systems; comply with Air Force and Department of Defense planning and design manuals, design standards, and safety requirements for vehicle maintenance operations; meet Anti Terrorism/Force Protection requirements; provide an enclosure to block wind; provide lighting for use at night; and be cost effective. Under the No Action Alternative, Trans and Base personnel would continue to wash vehicles manually at the existing wash rack using cold water. Cleaning supplies would be purchased using the Government Purchase Card (GPC), which could result in the purchase and use of unauthorized products. Use of the existing uncovered, unlit facility would not be feasible on windy days or at night. Use of the current wash rack would result in inadequate cleaning of vehicle exteriors, leading to accelerated deterioration and impaired vehicle appearance. Vehicles would need more frequent repainting to repair exterior damage caused by inadequate maintenance, resulting in increased Base operational costs. Under the Proposed Action, the existing wash rack would be demolished and replaced with a high-pressure, hot-water drive-through at the same location. The Proposed Action would provide an environmentally complaint area to clean Base fleet and LRS vehicles. The drivethrough would have two fully automated bays, one for smaller vehicles and another for buses and trucks. Ancillary equipment, like the high-pressure pump and hot water heater, would be RDD\ (FINAL FONSI WASH RACK.DOC)

4 installed between the two bays to serve both. The existing 0 /WS would be replaced with a closed-loop treatment system and an upgraded 0 /WS capable of meeting peak wastewater load volumes. The new system would have appropriate lighting and be partially enclosed. Other alternatives considered included locating the wash rack at a different location within the LRS yard, locating the wash rack outside the LRS yard, and combining the LRS wash rack with other existing or planned wash racks. These alternatives were eliminated from detailed analysis because they did not meet the selection criteria. The Proposed Action is the only alternative that meets the selection criteria, in addition to having no significant adverse effects on the natural or human environment. Decision After reviewing the EA, the Air Force has decided to proceed with demolition of the existing wash rack and construction of the drive-through. The potential impacts to the human and natural environment were evaluated relative to the No Action Alternative. For each environmental resource or issue, anticipated direct and indirect effects were assessed, considering both short-term and long-term project effects. Analysis shows that no significant impacts would be expected from implementation of the Proposed Action. During demolition, construction, and operation, the Proposed Action would result in less than significant impacts or no effects to air quality, noise, hazardous materials, hazardous waste, stored fuels, water resources, biological resources, land use, cultural resources, transportation systems, airspace/ airfield operations, safety and occupational health, environmental management, and environmental justice. The Proposed Action would provide socioeconomic benefits by generating construction jobs. Overall, the analysis for this EA indicates that replacement of the vehicle wash rack, as described under the Proposed Action, would not result in or contribute to significant negative cumulative or indirect impacts to the resources in the region. Conclusion In accordance with the CEQ regulations implementing NEPA and the Air Force Environmental Impact Analysis Process, the Air Force concludes that the Proposed Action will have no significant impact on the quality of the human environment and that preparation of an environmental impact statement is not warranted. A copy of the EA was made available to the public at the Fairfield-Suisun Community Library, the Vacaville Public Library, and the Mitchell Memorial Library at Travis AFB from 3-17 Jun 05. No comments were received from the public. Captain Jeremiah Frost, USAF 60CES/CEVP 411 Airmen Drive Travis AFB, California SIGNED: RDD\ (FINAL FONSI WASH RACK.DOC)

5 Executive Summary Introduction The U.S. Air Force (Air Force) Air Mobility Command proposes to replace the existing manual vehicle wash rack (and associated oil/water separator [O/WS]) in the Transportation Squadron (Trans) yard with an automated drive-through vehicle washing facility (drive-through). The purpose of this Environmental Assessment (EA) is to determine whether the Proposed Action would have a significant adverse effect on the quality of the environment. In accordance with Air Force Regulations (Title 32 of the Code of Federal Regulations [CFR], Part 989, Environmental Impact Analysis Process), an EA is the appropriate documentation required. A Categorical Exclusion is not applicable. In addition, an Environmental Impact Statement is not required because impacts potentially resulting from the Proposed Action would be less than significant. Purpose of and Need for the Action The purpose of the Proposed Action is to replace the existing inadequate wash rack with a newly constructed drive-through that is operationally adequate and environmentally compliant. Implementation of the Proposed Action would meet the Base s need to provide an environmentally compliant area to wash and maintain the exterior of 400 to 500 Base fleet and Trans vehicles. Currently, Trans and Base personnel manually wash the vehicles at the existing wash rack. This practice is inefficient because the existing wash rack cannot be used at night, is too small to wash large vehicles, and does not provide cover from wind and storm events. Time-consuming, manual cleaning of vehicles decreases productive time of personnel in accomplishing the Air Force assigned mission. Vehicles are occasionally taken offbase for cleaning in commercial wash racks, which increases maintenance costs and further diminishes the Airmen s time spent accomplishing the mission. Additionally, an internal Air Force assessment identified the current facility design as deficient because it allows stormwater infiltration into the sanitary sewer system during storm events. Description of Proposed Alternatives Reasonable alternatives for washing Base fleet and Trans vehicles and equipment at Travis AFB should meet or exceed environmental requirements for the use of cleaning products and washing systems, including operating a covered O/WS within design capacity limits, comply with planning and design manuals, design standards, and safety requirements for vehicle maintenance operations, provide an enclosure to block wind during windy days, provide internal lighting for nighttime use, and be cost effective. The No Action Alternative is carried forward for consideration in accordance with 32 CFR Part 989.8(d). Other alternatives that were considered included locating the wash rack at a different location in the Trans yard, locating the wash rack outside the Trans yard, and combining the RDD/ (EXEC SUM WASH RACK) ES-1

6 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Trans wash rack with other existing or planned wash racks. These alternatives were eliminated from detailed analysis because they did not meet all the selection criteria. Alternative 1 No Action Alternative Under the No Action Alternative, vehicles would continue to be washed manually at the existing wash rack. Washing activities include the application of detergent, manual scrubbing of the vehicle, rinsing, and either air- or towel-drying. Hoses used to wet and rinse vehicles supply only cold water, which is less effective in removal of detergent and oily grime than warm or hot water. Cleaning supplies are routinely purchased using International Merchant Purchase Authorization Card, which could result in the inadvertent purchase and use of environmentally inferior or unauthorized products. Use of the current, uncovered facility is not feasible on windy days and cleaning operations are conducted only during daytime hours because the facility lacks adequate lighting. Use of the current wash rack results in infrequent and inadequate cleaning of vehicle exteriors, leading to accelerated vehicle deterioration and impaired appearance. The O/WS associated with the wash rack works effectively up to a maximum flow of 20 gallons per minute. Because the wash rack is not covered, stormwater drains directly into the O/WS during storm events and overloads the treatment system. Furthermore, the O/WS discharge drains into a piping system where corrosion is suspected, which could allow effluent to infiltrate the soil and groundwater surrounding the piping system. Alternative 2 Proposed Action The Air Force proposes to demolish the existing wash rack and construct an automated, enclosed, well-lit drive-through. The wash rack would be replaced in the existing location, but would exceed the current footprint to allow the drive-through to be large enough to accommodate large vehicles and full-size buses. The new facility would be a partially enclosed, environmentally complaint, high-pressure, hot-water vehicle cleaning system for the 400 to 500 vehicles comprising the Base and Trans fleets. A new gas line would be installed to connect the new facility to the existing gas-distribution network. The drivethrough would have two fully automated bays: one for small-to medium-size vehicles and another for buses and trucks. Ancillary equipment, like the high-pressure pump, hot water heater, and process controls would be installed between the two bays to serve both. The new system would also have appropriate lighting. The drive-through would be equipped with a closed-loop treatment system for water treatment and conservation. The existing O/WS would be replaced with an upgraded O/WS compatible with the new facility and capable of meeting peak wastewater load volumes. The existing, potentially corroded ancillary piping system would be replaced, if necessary, after inspection and during construction. Operation and maintenance of the drive-through could be accomplished with the same number of personnel as is currently assigned to the Trans yard. ES-2 RDD/ (EXEC SUM WASH RACK)

7 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Environmental Consequences The potential impacts to the human and natural environments were evaluated by comparing the Proposed Action to the No Action Alternative. The subsection for each environmental resource or issue assesses the anticipated direct and indirect impacts, considering both short- and long-term effects. Air Quality Alternative 1 Under the No Action Alternative, construction would not occur and air pollutant emissions associated with construction would not be generated. Emissions from operations, including travel to the site, would not change from current conditions. Alternative 2 The Proposed Action would cause temporary, short-term adverse impacts to air quality as a result of construction emissions. Construction-related impacts are expected to be local and limited to the duration of the construction activities. Potential impacts are expected to be less than significant. Long-term adverse impacts would include the operation emissions from the new hot water boiler for the drive-through. The increase in mobile emissions would be negligible because the Proposed Action would not increase the trips or vehicle miles traveled to Travis AFB during its operation. Operational impacts are expected to be less than significant. Noise Alternative 1 The No Action Alternative would not result in construction activities. Therefore, no construction noise would occur. Current operational noise levels would continue. Alternative 2 The Proposed Action would generate noise during demolition and construction. Noise associated with construction activities would be temporary, occur during daytime hours, and vary in levels, depending on the sources in use and types of activities. Noise associated with flightline activities at the Proposed Action site has a community noise equivalent level of approximately 70 to 75 decibels (Williams, 2005, pers. comm.). Because construction noise would not be substantially higher than background levels, there would be no significant construction noise impacts to the adjacent buildings. Operational noise levels are expected to increase slightly from existing levels. Noise levels generated by the drive through could be as high as 89 decibels at a distance of 20 feet. The noise levels generated by the wash rack are compatible with the land use designation of the Trans yard. Noise increases would be limited to the area surrounding the wash rack and would primarily occur during daylight hours. Noise levels are expected to be at or below background levels by the time they reach any offsite receptors, and there are no sensitive receptors within 1,000 feet of the site. The RDD/ (EXEC SUM WASH RACK) ES-3

8 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY operators of the drive-through would follow applicable regulations, including Occupational Safety and Health Act regulations for acceptable noise exposure. The increase in noise during operation of the new wash rack is expected to be less than significant. The increase in noise from demolition, construction, and operation would be minor and temporary, and any increases are expected to be offset by the ambient background noise control measures that are currently in place at neighboring buildings. Hazardous Materials, Wastes, Environmental Restoration Program Sites, and Stored Fuels Alternative 1 Implementation of the No Action Alternative would not result in changes to current waste production, waste management practices, Environmental Restoration Program sites, or stored fuels. Alternative 2 The operation and maintenance practices at the wash rack would not change if the Proposed Action were implemented. Hazardous material impacts would be less than significant because the amount of hazardous materials used would not increase and hazardous materials would be used in accordance with the Hazardous Materials Management Plan. Lead-based paint (LBP) could have been used on the existing wash rack. An LBP survey would be conducted prior to removal of any paint from the existing facility to determine whether it is present. If LBP were present, an abatement plan would be prepared and implemented for its safe abatement, in accordance with applicable health and safety and environmental regulations. Conducting an LBP survey and implementing an abatement plan (if necessary) would reduce potential impacts from LBP at the Proposed Action site to less than significant levels. The Proposed Action would not involve any new activities that would generate hazardous waste. The proposed drive-through would be equipped with an O/WS that would comply with the Air Force s Environmental Compliance Policy for Oil/Water Separator Operations, Maintenance and Construction (1994). The hazardous waste handling and management techniques that are currently in practice at the Base would be followed. Impacts from vehicle washing would not be greater than the impacts that are associated with current practices at the site. Therefore, impacts associated with the drive-through would be less than significant. The demolition phase of the Proposed Action would generate solid waste. The majority of the waste would be recycled. The amount of solid waste generated from replacement of the vehicle wash rack would be less than significant compared to the amount currently generated by the Base. The Proposed Action is located within the boundary of ERP Site SS016. Contaminated soil and groundwater have been documented at Site SS016 (Travis AFB, 2002). Contaminants are not known to occur in the soil or groundwater directly beneath the Proposed Action site (Radian International, 1998; CH2M HILL, 2003). Construction is expected to disturb soil to a ES-4 RDD/ (EXEC SUM WASH RACK)

9 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY depth no greater than 6 feet and is not expected to reach groundwater. Prior to construction, the following measures would be implemented: Consult with the Base Remediation Program Manager prior to construction. Obtain a dig permit (60 AMW Form 55). Prepare a contingency plan outlining steps to be taken in case soil discoloration or hydrocarbon vapors were detected or groundwater were encountered during construction. The contingency plan would be reviewed by the Base Remediation Program Manager prior to construction. If contaminated materials were encountered during construction, protective measures would be implemented based on direction from the Base Remediation Program Manager; therefore, potential impacts to human health and the environment from potential contamination would be less than significant. The Proposed Action site is not located over stored fuel; therefore, impacts to stored fuel are not anticipated. Water Resources, Floodplains, and Wastewater The current vehicle wash rack site is not located within the 100-year floodplain (Travis AFB, 2002 and 2003; CH2M HILL, 2003). Neither alternative would use groundwater or release water in a way that could impact groundwater. No significant impacts to floodplains or groundwater are expected from either of the project alternatives. Alternative 1 If the No Action Alternative were selected, no changes to the stormwater drainage system or wastewater generation would occur. Alternative 2 The Proposed Action site is connected to the stormwater drainage system through an underground pipe that conveys stormwater to Union Creek. Construction could potentially produce short-term impacts to the stormwater drainage system from erosion during earthmoving activities. The project would comply with applicable restrictions set forth in the stormwater permit, the stormwater pollution prevention plan, and the dig permit. Best Management Practices would be implemented in accordance with these permits to prevent erosion. Compliance with the relevant permits and implementation of Best Management Practices would reduce potential impacts from construction activities or stormwater discharges to less than significant levels. Implementing the Proposed Action would not increase the amount of sewage entering the sanitary sewer system or change conveyance patterns. Water consumption would be reduced using a closed-loop treatment system. The closed-loop treatment system would consist of a series of process equipment, followed by several filtration devices. The drivethrough would also be equipped with an O/WS, which would convey treated wastewater to the sanitary sewer system. The amount of wastewater generated would be less than significant compared to basewide sewer operations. RDD/ (EXEC SUM WASH RACK) ES-5

10 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Biological Resources Federal- and State-listed Threatened or Endangered Species Alternative 1 No biological resources are present at or adjacent to the existing wash rack. Therefore, no impacts to biological resources would result from implementation of the No Action Alternative. Alternative 2 The Alternative 2 site is currently a paved wash rack. There are no biological resources at or adjacent to the existing wash rack. Therefore, impacts to biological resources would not occur. Socioeconomic Resources Alternative 1 Selection of the No Action Alternative would not result in changes to the socioeconomic resources at the Base or in Solano County. Alternative 2 Implementation of Alternative 2 would result in a temporary, beneficial impact to socioeconomic resources because it would require a temporary increase of approximately 30 civilian contract employees (construction workers) at the Base. Compared to the No Action Alternative, the Proposed Action would not result in long-term changes to socioeconomic conditions or onbase or regional populations. Cultural Resources Alternative 1 No cultural resources have been identified at or near the wash rack. Therefore, no impacts to cultural resources would occur under the No Action Alternative. Alternative 2 There are no known archeological sites, historic buildings, or other culturally sensitive areas at or adjacent to the Proposed Action site; therefore, there would be no effect on this resource from the Proposed Action. Prior to construction, a dig permit (60 AMW Form 55) would be acquired and a contingency plan prepared. If an unexpected cultural resource were encountered, adherence to the dig permit and implementation of the contingency plan would reduce impacts to less than significant levels. Land Use Alternative 1 Under the No Action Alternative there would be no change to the existing land use. ES-6 RDD/ (EXEC SUM WASH RACK)

11 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Alternative 2 According to the Travis Air Force Base General Plan land use maps, the existing and future land use designation for the Proposed Action site is industrial (Travis AFB, 2002). The Proposed Action is compatible with the current and future site land use designations. There are no land use restrictions at the site. No impact to land use is anticipated from the Proposed Action. Transportation System Alternative 1 Under the No Action Alternative, current traffic levels and patterns would be maintained. Alternative 2 The Alternative 2 site lies in the central portion of the Base, near the airfield. The Proposed Action would add vehicle traffic to Travis AFB only during demolition and construction activities. Potential traffic impacts resulting from the proposed construction and demolition would be temporary and minor in comparison to overall Base traffic. Impacts to the transportation system from the Proposed Action would be less than significant. Airspace/Airfield Operations Alternative 1 No change in airspace or airfield operations would result from the No Action Alternative. Alternative 2 The drive-through would be located outside airspace and airfield operations areas. Therefore, construction of the Proposed Action would not result in impacts to airspace or airfield operations. Safety and Occupational Health Alternative 1 Implementing the No Action Alternative would not change health or safety conditions. Alternative 2 Implementing the Proposed Action would require demolition of the current facilities and construction of new facilities, involving military and civilian personnel. In accordance with the Occupational Safety and Health Act, workers would be provided with appropriate personal protective equipment. A health and safety plan for construction would be prepared. If LBP were discovered, an approved abatement plan would be adopted that would detail the precautions necessary to protect worker health and safety. Construction areas would be secured as necessary to prevent unauthorized personnel from entering the work sites or excavations. The potential for adverse impacts to safety and occupational health are expected to be minor and limited to the duration of construction. No impacts to public health are anticipated from operation of the drive-through. RDD/ (EXEC SUM WASH RACK) ES-7

12 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Environmental Management (Including Geology, Soils, and Pollution Prevention) Alternative 1 There would be no change to geology, soils, or pollution prevention if the No Action Alternative were implemented. Alternative 2 No important geological or soil resources are present in the area of the Proposed Action. Therefore, potential impacts to geology or soils associated with the Proposed Action would be less than significant. Generation and management of waste during demolition and construction are expected to meet Travis AFB pollution prevention goals. Waste production during operation of the drive-through would be approximately equal to the current levels; therefore, there would be minimal change as a result of implementing the Proposed Action, compared to current conditions. Environmental Justice and Protection of Children Alternative 1 Implementation of the No Action Alternative would not affect minority or low-income populations or children. Alternative 2 Implementation of the Proposed Action would not result in impacts to minority or lowincome populations or the health or safety of children. Indirect and Cumulative Impacts Alternative 1, the No Action Alternative, would have no potential for indirect or cumulative impacts. Implementing the Proposed Action is not expected to result in significant indirect impacts to environmental or socioeconomic resources. The Proposed Action would not result in significant growth-inducing effects, induced changes in population, or related effects. Projects considered for cumulative impact in the EA are those that are ongoing or planned to begin within the next 3 years at Travis AFB. The potential for cumulative impacts to air quality would come from multiple construction projects occurring simultaneously. The Proposed Action would conform to the State Implementation Plan and not be regionally significant. Provided that the planned projects are not constructed simultaneously, the State Implementation Plan measures for each project would be sufficient to prevent significant cumulative impacts from construction activities. Earth-moving activities associated with multiple construction projects occurring simultaneously could impact water resources by decreasing the quality of surface water runoff during storm events. Impacts from multiple actions would be addressed and reduced to less than significant levels by adhering to the basewide permits and programs that are currently in place. ES-8 RDD/ (EXEC SUM WASH RACK)

13 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The Proposed Action would not put further strain on the stormwater or sanitary sewer systems; therefore, there would be no cumulative impacts to those systems. Unavoidable Adverse Impacts No significant unavoidable adverse impacts are expected from demolition, construction, or drive-through operation under the Proposed Action. Relationship between Short-term Uses and Enhancement of Long-term Productivity The Proposed Action would meet the Base s need to provide an environmentally compliant area to wash and maintain the exteriors of Base fleet and Trans vehicles. Currently, Trans personnel manually wash the vehicles at the existing wash rack. This practice is inefficient. Furthermore, the current O/WS associated with the wash rack was found to be inadequate. The Proposed Action would enhance long-term productivity at Travis AFB by resolving the deficiencies associated with the existing wash rack. Irreversible and Irretrievable Commitment of Resources Resources expected to be affected during long-term use of the drive-through include additional electricity for lighting and natural gas for heating. Works Cited CH2M HILL Groundwater Sampling and Analysis Program, Annual Report. November. Radian International Pre-draft. SS016 Interim Groundwater Remedial Design/Remedial Action Work Plan. March. Travis Air Force Base (AFB or Base) Travis Air Force Base General Plan. October. Travis Air Force Base (AFB or Base) Integrated Natural Resources Management Plan. September. U.S. Air Force (Air Force) Environmental Compliance Policy for Oil/Water Separator Operations, Maintenance and Construction. October. Williams, Wayne Telephone conversation between Wayne Williams/60 CES/CECP, Travis Air Force Base, and Ed McCarthy/CH2M HILL. February 15. RDD/ (EXEC SUM WASH RACK) ES-9

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15 Contents Page Executive Summary... ES-1 Acronyms and Abbreviations... xi Section 1.0 Purpose of and Need for the Proposed Action Introduction Need for the Action Objectives of the Action Location of Proposed Action Scope of the Environmental Assessment Decision(s) that Must be Made Applicable Regulatory Requirements and Required Coordination Description of the Alternatives, Including the Proposed Action Introduction Selection Criteria for Alternatives Alternatives Considered but Eliminated from Detailed Study Description of Proposed Alternatives Alternative 1 No Action Alternative 2 Proposed Action: Replace Trans Wash Rack Facility Description of Past and Reasonably Foreseeable Future Actions Relevant to Cumulative Impacts Identification of Preferred Alternative Comparison of the Environmental Impacts of Alternatives Affected Environment Introduction Air Quality Regional Climate Current Air Quality Conditions Indoor Air Quality Noise Hazardous Materials, Waste, Environmental Restoration Program Sites, and Stored Fuels Hazardous Materials and Hazardous Waste Solid Waste Environmental Restoration Program Sites Stored Fuels Water Resources, Floodplains, and Wastewater Groundwater RDD/ (FINAL EA WASH RACK) VII

16 Contents, Continued Page Surface Water Floodplains Wastewater Biological Resources Areas Subject to Regulation under Sections 404 and 401 of the Clean Water Act Special-status Species Socioeconomic Resources Cultural Resources Cultural History Cultural Resource Investigations and Resources Land Use Land Use Categories Land Use Restrictions Land Use Surrounding Travis Air Force Base Transportation System Roadways/Streets Other Facilities Airspace/Airfield Operations Airfield Safety th Air Mobility Wing Tenant Units Safety and Occupational Health Environmental Management (Including Geology, Soils, and Pollution Prevention) Geology Soils Pollution Prevention Environmental Justice and Protection of Children Environmental Consequences Introduction Air Quality Laws and Regulations Alternative 1 No Action Alternative 2 Proposed Action Noise Alternative 1 No Action Alternative 2 Proposed Action Hazardous Materials, Wastes, ERP Sites, and Stored Fuels Alternative 1 No Action Alternative 2 Proposed Action VIII RDD/ (FINAL EA WASH RACK)

17 Contents, Continued Page 4.5 Water Resources, Floodplains, and Wastewater Alternative 1 No Action Alternative 2 Proposed Action Biological Resources Federal- and State-listed Threatened or Endangered Species Alternative 1 No Action Alternative 2 Proposed Action Socioeconomic Resources Alternative 1 No Action Alternative 2 Proposed Action Cultural Resources Alternative 1 No Action Alternative 2 Proposed Action Land Use Alternative 1 No Action Alternative 2 Proposed Action Transportation System Alternative 1 No Action Alternative 2 Proposed Action Airspace/Airfield Operations Alternative 1 No Action Alternative 2 Proposed Action Safety and Occupation Health Alternative 1 No Action Alternative 2 Proposed Action Environmental Management (Including Geology, Soils, and Pollution Prevention) Alternative 1 No Action Alternative 2 Proposed Action Environmental Justice and Protection of Children Alternative 1 No Action Alternative 2 Proposed Action Indirect and Cumulative Impacts Unavoidable Adverse Impacts Relationship between Short-term Uses and Enhancement of Long-term Productivity Irreversible and Irretrievable Commitment of Resources List of Preparers List of Agencies and People Consulted and/or Provided Copies Works Cited RDD/ (FINAL EA WASH RACK) IX

18 Contents, Continued Page Appendices A Air Force Form 813 B Air Force Form 332 C D Air Emission Calculations Clean Air Act Conformity Applicability Analysis for the Replacement of a Vehicle Wash Rack Tables 2-1 Summary of Potential Environmental and Socioeconomic Consequences Bay Area Air Quality Management District Attainment Status as of November San Francisco Bay Area Air Basin Exceedances of the State Ambient Air Quality Standards from 1996 through Special-status Species Potentially Occurring at Travis Air Force Base Estimated Alternative 2 Construction Emissions Estimated Alternative 2 Construction and Operation Emissions Estimated Alternative 2 Total Construction and Operation Emissions Comparison of Project Emissions and Emissions Inventory Typical Construction Equipment and Composite Site Noise Levels Figures 1-1 Travis Air Force Base Location Map Location of Trans Wash Rack Existing and Alternative Wash Rack Locations Inside the Trans Yard Existing Trans Wash Rack Existing Oil/Water Separator Environmental Resources and Infrastructure Drainage Basin Boundaries Geologic Map of Travis AFB and Vicinity Soil Types Comparative Sound Levels X RDD/ (FINAL EA WASH RACK)

19 Acronyms and Abbreviations µg/m 3 Air Force AFB AFI AST BAAQMD Base Basin CAA CAAQS CARB CDFG CEQ CES/CEV CFR CNEL CO CWA db drive-through EA EO EPA ERP ft 2 LUC NAAQS micrograms per cubic meter U.S. Air Force Air Force Base Air Force Instruction aboveground storage tank Bay Area Air Quality Management District Travis Air Force Base San Francisco Bay Area Air Basin Clean Air Act California Ambient Air Quality Standards California Air Resources Board California Department of Fish and Game President s Council on Environmental Quality Civil Engineering Squadron Environmental Flight Code of Federal Regulations Community Noise Equivalent Level carbon monoxide Clean Water Act decibel(s) drive-through vehicle washing facility Environmental Assessment Executive Order U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Environmental Restoration Program square feet land use control National Ambient Air Quality Standards RDD/ (FINAL EA WASH RACK) XI

20 ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS NEPA NO x O/WS PM 2.5 PM 10 ppm RCRA SIP SO 2 tpy Trans Travis AFB General Plan USACE USC UST VOC National Environmental Policy Act nitrogen oxide oil/water separator particulate matter less than 2.5 microns particulate matter less than 10 microns parts per million Resource Conservation and Recovery Act State Implementation Plan sulfur dioxide tons per year Transportation Squadron Travis Air Force Base General Plan U.S. Army Corps of Engineers U.S. Code underground storage tank volatile organic compound XII RDD/ (FINAL EA WASH RACK)

21 SECTION 1.0 Purpose of and Need for the Proposed Action 1.1 Introduction The U.S. Air Force (Air Force) Air Mobility Command at Travis Air Force Base (AFB or Base) in Fairfield, California, proposes to replace the existing manual vehicle wash rack (known as Building 140) and the associated oil/water separator (O/WS) in the Transportation Squadron (Trans) yard with an automated drive-through vehicle washing facility (drive-through). The location of Travis AFB is shown on Figure 1-1 (figures are located at the end of each section). The proposed drive-through would be constructed at the same location as the existing wash rack, and would provide an environmentally compliant area to clean the exterior surfaces of Base fleet and Trans vehicles. The general location of the Proposed Action is shown on Figure 1-2. Travis AFB, with the support of Air Mobility Command and the Air Force Center for Environmental Excellence, has prepared this EA in accordance with National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) implementing regulations (40 Code of Federal Regulations [CFR] 1500 through 1508), Air Force Regulation 32 CFR 989, and Department of Defense directives. This EA has been prepared to determine whether the Proposed Action would have a significant adverse effect on the quality of the environment. 1.2 Need for the Action Implementation of the Proposed Action would meet the Base s need to provide an environmentally compliant area to wash and maintain the exterior of 400 to 500 Base fleet and Trans vehicles. Currently, Trans personnel manually wash the vehicles at the existing wash rack. This practice is inefficient. Additionally, an internal Air Force assessment identified the current facility design as deficient because it allows stormwater infiltration into the sanitary sewer system during storm events. The following deficiencies are intended to be resolved by the Proposed Action: The existing wash rack is used during limited hours because it is not lighted for nighttime use. The existing washing system is too small to permit washing of the large Base fleet and Trans vehicles. Infrequent or inadequate cleaning and maintenance of the vehicles exteriors will lead to accelerated deterioration and impaired appearance. Inadequate maintenance will also result in an increase in both the frequency and cost of repainting the vehicles. A clean vehicle appearance boosts the morale and pride of military and civilian personnel. The existing wash rack and O/WS have no cover, which results in stormwater entering the O/WS and ultimately infiltrating the sanitary sewer system during storm events. System overloads have been observed in the past. Furthermore, the O/WS is not sized to handle large quantities of stormwater runoff. RDD/ (FINAL EA WASH RACK) 1-1

22 SECTION 1.0 PURPOSE OF AND NEED FOR THE PROPOSED ACTION The wastewater from the wash rack drains into a potentially corroded piping system, which creates the potential for wastewater to seep into the surrounding soil. The practice of purchasing cleaning supplies using the International Merchant Purchase Authorization Card and manually washing Base fleet and Trans vehicles is labor intensive and results in increased operational costs. Trans is operating at reduced personnel levels, and manual vehicle-washing is an additional demand on resources. Furthermore, inadequate cleaning products might be purchased on the International Merchant Purchase Authorization Card. Time-consuming manual cleaning of vehicles decreases productive time of personnel in accomplishing the Air Force assigned mission. Vehicles are occasionally taken offbase for cleaning in commercial wash racks, which increases maintenance costs and further diminishes the Airmen s time spent accomplishing the mission. 1.3 Objectives of the Action The objectives of the Proposed Action are to replace the existing inadequate wash rack with a newly constructed drive-through that is operationally superior and environmentally compliant. The proposed drive-through would be used to clean the exteriors of the Base fleet and Trans vehicles. It would adhere to the following criteria: Be automated to increase the efficiency of vehicle washing and reduce water costs by reducing the volume of water used Have adequate lighting to allow nighttime use Be able to service large vehicles and full-size buses (dimensions as large as 45 feet long, 12 feet wide, and 15 feet high) Be a covered facility that complies with Air Force, state, and local regulations for wastewater, stormwater, and O/WSs Use environmentally compliant cleaning products and wash systems Be equipped with a credit card reader or similar device, to document frequency of use and types of vehicles The proposed modern facility would provide an efficient and environmentally compliant vehicle cleaning system for Base fleet and Trans vehicles. It would have the capacity to clean the vehicles at the frequency required to meet maintenance objectives in a costeffective way. 1.4 Location of Proposed Action Travis AFB is located in the City of Fairfield, Solano County, and extends over approximately 5,128 acres (see Figure 1-1). The Base is located off Interstate 80, approximately midway between Sacramento and San Francisco and 7 miles northeast of central Fairfield. The project site is located in the Trans yard at the center of the Base, adjacent to the south side of Hickam Avenue, with an entrance from Hangar Avenue (see Figure 1-2). 1-2 RDD/ (FINAL EA WASH RACK)

23 SECTION 1.0 PURPOSE OF AND NEED FOR THE PROPOSED ACTION 1.5 Scope of the Environmental Assessment This EA documents and analyzes the potential environmental and socioeconomic effects associated with the Proposed Action, relative to the No Action condition. 1.6 Decision(s) that Must be Made The Chairman of the Environmental Protection Committee at Travis AFB is responsible for selecting an alternative to improve air mobility operations. A decision to take No Action (Alternative 1) would result in Travis AFB maintaining the current vehicle wash rack and not replacing it with the drive-through. A decision to take action (Alternative 2) would result in Travis AFB proceeding with the proposed construction of the drive-through. 1.7 Applicable Regulatory Requirements and Required Coordination This environmental analysis has been conducted in accordance with the President s Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) regulations, 40 CFR Sections 1500 through 1508, as they implement the requirements of NEPA, 42 U.S. Code (USC) Sections 4321 et seq., and Air Force Regulation 32 CFR 989, Environmental Impact Analysis Process. Air Force Regulation 32 CFR 989 specifies the procedural requirements for the implementation of NEPA and preparation of an EA, and directs Air Force officials to consider environmental consequences as part of the planning and decisionmaking process. Other environmental regulatory requirements relevant to the Proposed Action and alternative are also identified in this EA. Regulatory requirements under the following programs, among others, are assessed: Noise Control Act of 1972 Clean Air Act (CAA) Clean Water Act (CWA) National Historic Preservation Act Archaeological Resources Protection Act Endangered Species Act of 1973 Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) Comprehensive Environmental Restoration, Compensation, and Liability Act Toxic Substances Control Act of 1970 Occupational Safety and Health Act Requirements also include compliance with Executive Order (EO) (Floodplain Management); EO (Protection of Wetlands); EO (Federal Actions to Address Environmental Justice in Minority and Low-Income Populations); and EO (Protection of Children from Environmental Health Risks and Safety Risks). RDD/ (FINAL EA WASH RACK) 1-3

24 SECTION 1.0 PURPOSE OF AND NEED FOR THE PROPOSED ACTION This page intentionally left blank. 1-4 RDD/ (FINAL EA WASH RACK)

25 SECTION 1.0 PURPOSE OF AND NEED FOR THE PROPOSED ACTION Figure 1-1 Travis Air Force Base Location Map 8.5x11, B&W RDD/ (FINAL EA WASH RACK) 1-5

26 SECTION 1.0 PURPOSE OF AND NEED FOR THE PROPOSED ACTION Figure 1-1 Back 1-6 RDD/ (FINAL EA WASH RACK)

27 SECTION 1.0 PURPOSE OF AND NEED FOR THE PROPOSED ACTION Figure 1-2 Location of Trans Wash Rack (8 1/2 x 11, B&W) RDD/ (FINAL EA WASH RACK) 1-7

28 SECTION 1.0 PURPOSE OF AND NEED FOR THE PROPOSED ACTION Figure 1-2 Back 1-8 RDD/ (FINAL EA WASH RACK)

29 SECTION 2.0 Description of the Alternatives, Including the Proposed Action 2.1 Introduction This section presents the criteria for selecting the alternatives considered in this EA and describes the alternatives carried forward for detailed analysis. 2.2 Selection Criteria for Alternatives Reasonable alternatives for washing Base fleet and Trans vehicles and equipment at Travis AFB should accomplish the following in a cost-effective manner and with minimal impact to human health and natural resources: Meet or exceed state and Air Force environmental requirements for the use of cleaning products and washing systems, including operating a covered O/WS within design capacity limits Comply with Air Force and Department of Defense planning and design manuals, design standards, and safety requirements for vehicle maintenance operations Meet Department of Defense Anti-Terrorism/Force Protection requirements Provide an enclosure to block wind during windy days, to increase the time the facility is available for use Provide internal lighting for nighttime use, to increase the time the facility is available for use Minimize the cost of the project (e.g., by making efficient use of existing utility infrastructure) 2.3 Alternatives Considered but Eliminated from Detailed Study This EA analyzes the No Action Alternative and the Proposed Action. The following three alternatives were considered but eliminated from further consideration in this EA: Locating the wash rack at a different location in the Trans yard Locating the wash rack outside the Trans yard Combining the Trans wash rack with other existing or planned wash racks An alternative location inside the Trans yard was considered and eliminated because it would not meet all selection criteria. The current location of the wash rack (Building 140) RDD/ (FINAL EA WASH RACK) 2-1